Do you know what is in your mineral makeup? Have you ever taken the time to read the labels and find out exactly what each ingredient is for? A truly pure mineral makeup should use only pure minerals. You should expect to see these ingredients in your mineral makeup: Mica, Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxides, Zinc Oxide. You may also see Kaolin Clay and Ultramarine Blue in pure mineral makeup.
You should be wary of any mineral makeup containing any of these ingredients: Bismuth Oxychloride, Carmine, Cornstarch, Talc, Dyes, Lakes, Fragrances, Parabens, or any other preservatives. Mineral makeup does not require any preservatives in it. If your mineral makeup contains any form of preservatives, chances are there are minimal minerals in it.
I thought it might be beneficial for everyone to see what each ingredient in Mineral Makeup is used for, so I have compiled a list of ingredients that should be in the makeup and a list of ingredients to watch out for.
Zinc Oxide is a fluffy fine powder that offers whitening power, coverage and adhesion. It is known for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties in problem skin such as rosacea and acne. It has the ability to stay on even while swimming and sweating. It also offers protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays.
Titanium Dioxide is a powder used to whiten many things. It has good adhesion and is known for it’s waterproof and SPF properties while providing a matte look.
Mica has some transparent properties that allows the makeup to go on smoothly. It is the name given to a group of naturally occurring Earth’s minerals, which are mined from around the world, purified, and crushed into fine powders. A transparent mineral that is mined from the earth. It can be opalescent, sparkling or completely matte. It is often treated with iron oxides to make brilliant colors and used in mineral powders for its’ “slip” and light reflecting qualities.
Iron Oxides give the makeup its pigment/color.
Ultramarine Blue is required in some cool shades of makeup since there is no blue oxide. Products containing Ultramarine Blue are not permitted for use on the lips.
Serecite is used extensively in cosmetics, especially in foundations as a base ingredient. It feels silky to the touch and reflects light, reducing the appearance of pores and wrinkles. It is not as shimmery as other options, such as bismuth oxychloride. Serecite is similar to noncoated Mica and is commonly listed as Mica to follow labeling requirements.
Kaolin Clay is a pure, white, natural clay that offers adhesion to cosmetic products. This is a very gentle product and can be used on the most sensitive skin. It draws impurities from the skin without removing any natural oils. It provides great coverage and has the ability to absorb fats from the skin, refine pores and clear up breakouts.
Ingredients To Avoid in Mineral Makeup: (These ingredients are not used in Mere’ Minerals)
Bismuth Oxychloride is a cheap and inexpensive filler. It is the by-product of lead and copper refining. It is a very heavy element and chemically resembles arsenic. It provides a shine to your makeup and provides adhesion. It can cause clogged pores and irritated skin resulting in itching.Parabens are preservatives added to personal care products to extend the shelf life. May alter hormone levels, possibly increasing risks for certain types of cancer, impaired fertility, or alteration of the development of a fetus or young child. Parabens can cause skin irritation and contact dermatitis in some individuals.
Carmine is a pigment of a bright red color obtained from the carminic acid produced by some scale insects, such as the cochineal and the Polish cochineal, and is used as a general term for a particularly deep red color.
Cornstarch – If your makeup product has cornstarch in it then it DOES have an expiration date. Cornstarch is a vegetable starch and has a shelf life. It does not offer good adhesion and does not protect you from UV rays.
Want Mineral Makeup without the fillers? Then, check out Mere’ Minerals at www.mere-minerals.com
Mere' Minerals Weblog 
Yannah, this is great. I think this post is very informative. 🙂
Welcome to the world of blogging!!! Lots of good info.
Great article! Consumers are wise to avoid potentially hazardous ingredients such as parabens. But they also want skin care that nourishes their skin to keep it soft, healthy and radiant. I found a product that gives you all of that and more at http://GoodSugars.net/SkinCare.
The topic is quite trendy in the net right now. What do you pay attention to when choosing what to write ?
Our focus is on educating women on what is in their products and what ingredients to avoid that are considered toxic.
Very interesting post. Thank you for sharing with us.
You’ve done it once again! Amazing article.